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My pet's nail is broken and bleeding. What should I do right now?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Reptile | Bearded Dragon | Female | unspayed | 0.7 lbs

what should i do with broken nail

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on January 29th, 2020

Clip the nail carefully. If there is bleeding, gentle pressure and some Quik Stop powder or plain cornstarch should stop it. Clean daily with a diluted Betadine or chlorhexidine (Hibiclens) solution. A dab of a triple antibiotic may be applied if necessary. Monitor for redness, swelling or lethargy.
If she won't allow you to clip the nail, she may need to be seen by your veterinarian. Clip the other nails a bit to prevent snagging.

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Published on January 27th, 2018
Control any bleeding with gentle pressure and styptic powder. If there is no bleeding, make sure the nail bed is not exposed. If it is, there is risk of infection and it likely hurts. See your veterinarian for an exam. He or she will dispense medication if indicated. Check the other nails and trim them if necessary.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Published on November 13th, 2016
She probably broke a nail, it might still be hanging there and might need to be removed. I recommend taking her to the vet, they will put her under sedation if needed, will remove the nail and stop the bleeding.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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Poor Max! Apply cornstarch to the broken end. Be careful as broken nails can hurt and dogs may bite due to pain. Depending on how the nail is broken, Max may need to see his veterinarian today as these sometimes need to be removed. I hope this is helpful and please feel free to post any additional questions!

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My dog's nail broke at the base and is bleeding. What should I do?

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